The Fourth Global Conference on Oceans, Coasts, and Islands, “Advancing Ecosystem Management and Integrated Coastal and Ocean Management by 2010 in the Context of Climate Change,” hosted by the Government of Viet Nam, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and organized by the Global Forum on Oceans, Coasts, and Islands, took place in Hanoi, Viet Nam, from 8-11 April 2008.

The event brought together over 430 participants from 71 countries representing governments, UN and other international agencies, NGOs, industry, oceans donors, organized science groups, and networks of museums and aquaria. The Conference provided a review of progress, or lack thereof, in attaining the goals adopted by the world’s political leaders at the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development relating to oceans management and conservation, in the context of climate change. Throughout the Conference, participants actively engaged in the plenary and discussion sessions. While there was a sense of urgency, most shared a positive outlook given the opportunities for information sharing, collaboration, and networking in and outside the meeting rooms.
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